Research conducted by scholars from the Resource and Environmental Policy Research Centre, Environment for Development (REPEC-EfD) Nigeria, University of Nigeria, has revealed that many communities in Cross River State are inclined to engage in endeavours aimed at conserving Nigerian forests through the implementation of the REDD+ initiative.
The REDD+ initiative offers incentives to forest communities to mitigate deforestation and degradation, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
REDD+ is an abbreviation for Reducing Emission from Deforestation and Degradation, with the “+” signifying additional forest-related activities that contribute to climate protection.
Nigeria joined the United Nations REDD+ initiative in 2010 with the objective of positioning it among the nations with the lowest carbon emissions, enhancing forest carbon stocks, improving the livelihoods of forest-dependent communities, and fostering sustainable development.
The study, conducted by REPRC-EfD Nigeria researchers, aimed to ascertain the willingness of individuals to partake in future REDD+ projects, identify factors influencing their participation, and estimate the impact of REDD+ on household income and food security, among different gender groups.
The research findings were disseminated at a stakeholders’ workshop co-hosted by REPRC-EfD Nigeria and the National REDD+ Secretariat in Calabar, Cross River State, a pilot state for the implementation of REDD+ projects in Nigeria.
Prof. Nnaemeka Chukwuone, the Director of REPRC-EfD Nigeria, disclosed that the study uncovered a readiness among many communities to engage in future REDD+ projects in the country, with households willing to contribute labour towards the success of the project.
Prof. Chukwuone highlighted that the initial REDD+ projects in Cross River State communities failed to yield the desired impact due to flawed implementation of the intervention programmes.
“The outcomes of this research will guide the future design of REDD+ interventions to ensure impactful outcomes for forest communities,” he stated.
By Inya Agha Egwu
